Virat Kohli fined 50% of the match fee for expressing discontentment in a controversial dismissal

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In the world of cricket, the name Virat Kohli is synonymous with passion, aggression, and an unyielding desire to win. However, the recent incident during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has brought to light a different aspect of this celebrated cricketer.

Virat Kohli’s dismissal

Kohli, the ace batter for RCB, was fined 50 per cent of his match fee for breaching the IPL’s Code of Conduct. The incident occurred during RCB’s heartbreaking 1-run defeat in Kolkata. Kohli was adjudged out in the 3rd over of RCB’s chase of 223. The dismissal was off a full toss from KKR’s Harshit Rana, which Kohli believed to be a waist-high no-ball. The on-field umpires, however, did not share his view.

Kohli’s reaction to the decision was one of visible dissent. He argued with the on-field umpires, expressing his disagreement with the call. This outburst was deemed a Level 1 offence under Article 2.8 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct. As per the rules, Kohli’s admission of the offence and acceptance of the Match Referee’s sanction led to the imposition of the fine.

What do the rules say about Waist-High No-Balls?

According to rule 41.7 of ICC regulations ‘Bowling of dangerous and unfair non-pitching deliveries’: Any delivery, which passes or would have passed, without pitching, above waist height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease, is to be deemed to be unfair, whether or not it is likely to inflict physical injury on the striker. If the bowler bowls such a delivery the umpire shall immediately call and signal No ball.

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